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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through The Descent of Ishtar to the Underworld.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What theory does the author suggest as the origin for the tale of Atrahasis?
(a) It explains how the rivers Tigris and Euphrates were formed.
(b) It explains why New Years is a celebration all around the world.
(c) It explains why water is so revered in the Mesopotamian culture.
(d) It is an explanation for why the priestesses of Shamash were never allowed to have children.

2. What is Kurnugi?
(a) The collective temples of the gods.
(b) The gods' home.
(c) The Underworld.
(d) The sea.

3. After Gilgamesh passes through the mountains, what creatures does Gilgamesh mistakenly kill?
(a) The Sebitti.
(b) The taklimtu.
(c) The Gorgons.
(d) The stone creatures.

4. How does Ereshkigal avenge herself upon Ishtar?
(a) Namtar tricks Ishtar into marrying a beast.
(b) Namtar removes Ishtar's divine rights.
(c) Namtar casts sixty diseases on Ishtar.
(d) She traps Ishtar in an icy lake.

5. What purpose does the Sigla and Abbreviations section serve for this book?
(a) It gives a time period in which these stories supposedly occurred.
(b) It summarizes the work as a whole.
(c) It describes, in-depth, characteristics of the text.
(d) It gives historical background to the story.

Short Answer Questions

1. For whom must Ishtar be exchanged in Kurnugi?

2. In what color is Dumuzi clad when he descends to Kurnugi?

3. Who is the king of the old gods?

4. How long does Enki believe the flood will last?

5. In what tradition where these myths originally related?

(see the answer key)

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